Fresh from beating an MLS All Star team 4-0 in New Jersey on Wednesday night, Sir Alex Ferguson and his squad paid a visit to the White House on Thursday afternoon.

The squad, who were given a special tour of the iconic building, posed for a picture on the steps outside.

US president Barack Obama was unable to meet the United party, however, as the deadlock over America's $14.3trillion national debt reached crisis point.

United boss Ferguson, who has always taken a keen interest in politics and world affairs, looked particularlypleased on the visit, and posed for a picture under a picture of the 13th President of the United States, Millard Fillmore.

Ferguson said: 'It was fantastic. Fascinating. I've been before but it's such an historic and incredible place. We all enjoyed it.'

The Barcelona squad also visited the White House but were prevented from jogging on the famous lawn by security staff.

Stardefender Rio Ferdinand posted a picture of him inside, along with the message: 'Me chilling in the 'State Dinning Room' nosign of any tea bags!!'

Later, he complained that other pictureshe had taken had been removed.

All smiles: Rio Ferdinand in the State Dining Room at the White House

Tasty treats: United players eat special White House cookies

Ferdinand said: 'Whoasome1 has got into my phone+ taken down my pics off twitterthis is deep.is jack Bauer in Washington?!'

He also posted the message: 'My pic of the security was removed quick, rapido, sharpish, fastthey don't play here in DC.I feel like I'm on 24 right now #baffled.'

Striker Michael Owen said on Twitter: 'Had a tour around The White House. Unfortunately never met The President as he was locked in meetings but a great experience all the same.'

The Barcelona squad also visited the White House but were prevented from jogging on the famous lawn by security staff.

United players have made it in good time to Washington, ahead of their clash with the European champions on Sunday.

After that match, the squad will fly home and prepare for the start of the new domestic season, which will begin with the Community Shield against neighbours Manchester City at Wembley on August 7.

United then begin the defence of their Premier League title with a match against West Bromwich Albion the following weekend.

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